Scenery of Langshi

Scenery of Langshi

The scenery of Langshi is located on the hillside behind Langshi Village on the lush, green left bank of the Li River. Langshi Village is situated in Yangdi Township, Yangshuo County, Guilin City, Guangxi. This village represents the essence of the landscape within the Li River scenic area. As the boat departs from “Carp Hanging on the Cliff” and sails through the gorge downstream, amidst the shaded woods on the left bank, one suddenly spots farmhouses with black tiles and gray bricks standing gracefully along the river. Towering peaks rise on both banks, and the river twists narrowly through the mountains. Surrounded by hills and water, visitors can look ahead to see the river cutting through the gorge, while glancing sideways to admire the sailboats framed by the cliffs. The mountains stand in rows along the sides, peak after peak connected seamlessly, forming two natural green screens embracing the river. The Li River resembles a green silk ribbon fluttering through the canyon.

In front of the village, in the middle of the river, lies a cluster of jagged reefs jutting out above the emerald-green waves, resembling clusters of splashing waves. Locals call this reef formation “Langshi” (Waves Rock), and the village by its shore is named “Langshi Village.” During the misty rainy season, the scenery here is enveloped in clouds and fog, with the river winding through the gorge, boats hugging the mountainsides, and dense foliage shading the sunlight, blending the waves and rocks into one. As the boat passes by, one after another of the towering peaks line the shores, creating a densely packed scenic area that forms an entire canyon. Langshi Village has a long history and preserves many ancient residences. By disembarking and entering the village, visitors can admire classic, time-honored ancient architecture dating back to the Qing Dynasty, which remains well-preserved to this day. These original classical structures offer a glimpse into the village’s history and evolution.

On the hillside behind Langshi Village stands a mountain that resembles Guanyin (the Goddess of Mercy) seated on a lotus pedestal, her serene face faintly visible. In front of her is a smaller hill that looks just like a devout child bowing in worship. Locals say it is the protection of Guanyin Bodhisattva that keeps their lives free from disaster and brings them peace and safety. This scene is also known as the “Scenery of Langshi.”

Such breathtaking beauty has left countless visitors in awe. Yu Anqi, a poet from the Ming Dynasty, was so moved when he traveled along the Li River and passed Langshi Village that he composed the poem “Boating on the Li River” in praise: “With light oars, the boat glides past Guang’s border gates; who says travel beyond the ridges is hard? I’d rather sleep sound on the Li River route, with mountain visions above and the river’s roar below.”

The scenery around Langshi is exceptionally beautiful. On the right bank, the Great Yellow Mountain, Penholder Mountain, and Sky-Piercing Peak rise and fall in height, lining the riverbank like a screen. On the left bank, the White Rabbit Mountain, Chick Mountain, and Phoenix Mountain each display their unique charm, flanking the river as if to welcome and send off visitors. Between the two banks lies a gorge, and as tourist boats enter this canyon-like area, it feels as though they’ve entered a magical, tranquil world. Looking southward from the northern end of the gorge, the green waters resemble an elongated jade plate cradling a perfectly round “Apple Mountain,” akin to an apple, greeting visitors—especially enchanting when veiled in mist and rain, evoking the artistic ambiance of an ink-wash landscape painting.

Here, the Li River enters a truly magical realm. Towering peaks on both banks stand elegantly, with clear blue waters, verdant mountains, lush forests, bamboo groves, and charming ancient village houses creating a delightful landscape. On the right bank, the Great Yellow Mountain, Literary Brush Peak, Penholder Mountain, and Lion Mountain rise and fall in striking arrangement. On the left bank, Guanyin Mountain, Flying Phoenix Mountain, White Rabbit Mountain, and Golden Rooster Ridge stand tall, nestled beside the water and embracing the river, each displaying its own distinctive posture. Especially captivating are the sparse woods, clustered peaks, and distant mountains reflected in the river, like faint ink washes blending into the horizon and sinking into the water. As the boat's wake ripples by, it’s as if a painted scroll of landscapes is unrolling—the area is thus called the “Fairyland of Langshi.” Other beautiful sights in this section include: Boy Worshiping Guanyin, Paintbrush Peak, Five-Finger Mountain, Chicken Coop Mountain, Apple Mountain, Eight Immortals Crossing the Sea, Frog Leaping into the River, and Turtle Climbing the Mountain.

Li River Scenic Area

Guilin Elephant Trunk Hill

Crown Cave Scenic Area on the Li River

Nine-Horse Mural Gorge Drifting Scenic Area

Daxu Ancient Town

Li River Cruise

Yellow Ox Gorge

Father and Son Rock

Guilin Tashan (Tower Mountain)

Xingping Ancient Town

Yangdi

Yangshuo Landscape Garden

Yellow Cloth Reflection